Robotic Flame Treatment
FANUC Authorized System Integrator, Pioneer Industrial Systems designed and built a robotic flame treatment system for passenger vehicle vinyl floor moldings to help solve a unique challenge in the manufacturing process.
The vinyl flooring molds needed to be brazed with an oxygen rich flame after the mold process to alter the surface tension material for foam insulation adhesion.
This process requires the entire surface to be processed quickly and consistently to ensure a proper surface treatment. The oxygen rich flame needs to be quickly moved along the molding at a specific height and speed; a difficult task for manual labor.
The solution, which includes an invert-mount FANUC M-710iC robot, allows the operator to manage the equipment rather than perform the dangerous manual process. Safety was significantly improved by removing the operator from a hot-flame environment. The automated system also improved efficiency and quality.
Using ROBOGUIDE, FANUC’s 3D simulation software, Pioneer selected the FANUC M-710iC/20L robot based on its payload and reach capabilities. Simulations in .AVI format were provided to the customer for review.
A tubular steel gantry-style frame was designed to invert mount the robot directly over the vacuum mold. A PE stamp was acquired for the structural analysis of the gantry frame. The legs of the frame nested next to the foam-in-place presses so no additional floor space was required.
This automated system can seamlessly process three different vinyl floor mold sizes safely and efficiently, providing the customer an integrated and flexible solution.
Pioneer Industrial Systems is a group of problem solvers dedicated to helping manufacturers be more competitive by implementing industrial automation & robotics.
Learn more at pioneerindsys.com